France Denies Entry to Israeli Council Head; Israel Demands Explanation

Yossi Dagan, the head of the Samaria Regional Council, was denied entry into France during a policy visit. Upon arrival, he was detained at passport control and informed that his entry was prohibited due to his role as council head and his activities in Judea and Samaria, including the establishment of 35 settlements and efforts to promote a return to Gush Katif. Dagan stated he was proud to be a Jew and Zionist building the historic homeland.

Israel's Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation, calling the decision "completely unacceptable" and stating that Israel "views with severity" France's decision to ban a law-abiding elected official on "clear political and ideological grounds." Israel will demand explanations from the French government and will consider its next steps.

Dagan proceeded with his visit to Prague, Czech Republic, where he held three days of meetings with government officials, senators, and parliament members. He received expressions of support, with a representative from the Czech ruling party in the European Parliament calling Dagan's group the "front line defending Europe." The Deputy Chairman of the Czech Senate affirmed support for the residents of Samaria, and a senior Czech MP thanked the people of Samaria on behalf of the Czech Parliament.

During his meetings in Prague, Dagan asserted that "Judea and Samaria is the future of Israel and the guarantee for Europe's cultural and security existence." He added, "We are one front, we will fight together, and we will win together."